This blog-site seires is an effort of a "small l liberal" to advise the Liberal Party of Canada, and Justin Trudeau specifically on changes and theory and practice that could enable the Party to achieve its goals and benefit Canada the more as a result. It is based in combination with dissatisfaction with politics in its current state together with continued optimism for the future.
It is amazing to me that at my age I can still sustain hope for a new brand of politics. Before I could drink in a bar I remember the enthusiasm all over the world for the presidency of John Kennedy. The same could be said in Canada for the support for Pierre Elliot Trudeau. In my readings I have yet greater respect for Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, and Mohandas Gandhi. Each of these individuals was at times more hated than loved.
Looking back on those Kennedy and Trudeau days I think that we the young were in search of character that we could trust rather than politics we could support. We like the gifts people give us at Christmas time, but over time we value the givers for the quality of their lives. Inwardly we want politicians who lead us from their own passion, intelligence, competence, and vision.
I disagreed with many of the actions of Pierre Trudeau, but I trusted the man because I loved the firmness of his stand in the turbulence of his time. Unfortunately his style of leadership only comes from people who don't have to make a Faustian deal with political devils to achieve the leadership of a political party. I don't mind supporting particular politicians, but not if they are trading favours to get our support. Churchill was a very disagreeable man, but the whole world knew what he stood for, and that was what was required for a leader in the midst of a global crisis.
Justin Trudeau has a situation where he could become the prime minister of Canada without compromising his own beliefs. I wish through this blog-site and some ability to research and write to offer freely some views on a radical future for the Liberal Party of Canada: one I would like to join if it existed in reality more than dreams.
I will encourage others to post, within these parameters:
1. Advice should not be in direct opposition to the general platform of the Liberal Party of Canada.
Personally I am supportive of liberalism because it offers me some opportunity to be economically realistic, socially progressive, and personally idealistic. That is a tall order.
2. Advice should do more than offer than offer motherhood political cliche's.
We all know that a political party should "listen to the people" why have to read it again?
3. Views should identify a current problem or need in Canada, and then show that a Canadian political party could realistically achieve a solution.
It would be wonderful if we could all retire at age 50, but unless that is economically sustainable somehow why suggest it?
4. Posts are not intended to advertise for the Liberal Party of Canada, does the writer want to submit to any external editorial views, Liberal party or otherwise.
5. All posts must be policy oriented and will not be aimed at supporting or condemning individuals.
All this being said it is hoped that the party and its potential new leader can learn from the views freely expressed. If I am the only person to contribute to these posts, or even read them, I am happy to offer my words in any case.
Jim Bruce
October 7, 2012
